Proper tooth brushing pressure: What level is appropriate?
Proper Brushing Technique for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. Dentist Julia Thome from Cologne's Carree Dental dental center has shared her technique for brushing teeth that ensures effective plaque removal without causing harm to the gums or tooth enamel.
Contrary to popular belief, brushing teeth like a world champion is not necessary. Fresh plaque is soft, making aggressive scrubbing unnecessary. Instead, Thome advises positioning the bristles of the toothbrush at an angle of about 45 degrees to the gumline and using small, shaking movements to remove plaque and food residue.
After using these small shaking movements, Thome suggests a wiping motion towards the chewing surface to remove any remaining plaque and food particles. It's important to remember that too much pressure can cause gum recession over time or harm the teeth. Therefore, Thome advises pressing the toothbrush gently against the teeth.
To feel the right pressure when brushing teeth, one can use a kitchen or postal scale. By placing the toothbrush on the scale with the bristles touching the surface and pressing down gradually until the bristles just start to bend slightly, you can note the force reading on the scale. This force typically ranges between 150 to 200 grams (about 1.5 to 2 newtons) of pressure applied during brushing, which is considered safe and effective for cleaning without causing harm.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce the risk of gum damage and tooth abrasion while promoting effective plaque removal. So, remember to use a soft-bristled brush, apply gentle pressure, and practice with a kitchen or postal scale to ensure you're brushing with the correct force.
References:
[1] American Dental Association. (n.d.). Brushing your teeth. ADA. https://www.ada.org/en/oral-health/topics/brushing-your-teeth
[3] British Dental Health Foundation. (n.d.). Tooth brushing. BDHF. https://www.dentalhealth.org/dental-health/oral-hygiene/tooth-brushing
[5] National Health Service. (n.d.). How to brush your teeth. NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/how-to-brush-your-teeth/
Science and health-and-wellness are intertwined in maintaining proper oral hygiene, as demonstrated through the technique dental professional Julia Thome shares for effective plaque removal while preserving tooth enamel and gum health. Key to her technique is the use of small, shaking movements, a wiping motion towards the chewing surface, and pressing the toothbrush gently against the teeth to prevent gum recession and tooth damage over time.
